Nurturing Great Kidsنموونە

Choosing Friends

Do you remember how you chose friends in high school? I’m guessing righteousness wasn’t on your checklist or the first thing you considered. So be patient as you see your children begin to choose their friends. They will definitely become like the people they hang out with, so help them see the pitfalls of having friends who don’t make wise choices.

However, don’t beat yourself up if they make some poor decisions. It’s part of the maturation process and a natural function of growing up. Our goal as parents is to expose our children to as many nuggets of truth as they can receive and accept. Then pray they will own these beliefs as they align their lives with God’s Word and God’s will.

The key words in that last sentence are “God’s will.” We can often set our agenda and goals for our children ahead of God’s will even in this area of friendship. Be careful not to judge your children’s choices based on the choices you made at their age. This is an easy pitfall for parents—so be careful!

Parenting Principle

Choose good friends and your children will benefit from your example.

Points to Ponder

What have you learned about making good choices in friends?

What type of choices in friends are your children making?

What are some things you can do to continue to guide your children in this area?

A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city.